2013 was one of my favorite years yet, both in a personal sense and a pop culture sense. I love the end of the year specials that are all over television where they break down the big trends and happenings of the past 365 days. 

I thought I'd break down my own non personal favorites of 2013, things that affected me in no way but made me happy nonetheless.

1. Jennifer Lawrence: Um, is this even a question? The flawless human being called J.Law made 2013 her year, as if 2012 wasn't enough. She started the year falling down at the Oscars but won the world over in all her interviews, red carpet moments and Catching Fire. She stunned us all by chopping her hair into a pixie cut and made jaws drop in American Hustle. There is no one I love more than Jennifer Lawrence and 2013 proved that correct.

2. One Direction: I didn't think it was possible to love One Direction more in 2013 than I did in 2012. Their new album, performances on SNL, the 3D movie...you couldn't go anywhere this year without seeing the five handsome boys. I'm still upset that I didn't get Harry Styles under my Christmas tree this year...maybe next year?

3. The Mother of all Reveals: I got into a serious relationship with Netflix the first week of summer 2013 when I watched all eight seasons of How I Met Your Mother. This was the show of the year to me, especially when on the season eight finale we FINALLY met the mother! Season nine has been melancholy but still awesome, in my eyes. 

4. Prince George: We ended 2012 with a big royal news--the Duchess of Cambridge was pregnant with the heir to the British throne and most of 2013 was spent carefully paying attention to that gorgeous baby bump. In July, the watching came to a sudden halt when Princess Kate gave birth to Prince George Louis Alexander. 

5. Bold Brows: This had to be my favorite beauty trend of 2013. I can't tell you why because I used to think that thick eyebrows were hideous but Cara Delevingne makes it look so good! I've sculpted my eyebrows thickly a few times with the help of brow powder, pencils and wax and I have to admit, I do like how it looks. 

There are other favorites I had in 2013 like Justin Timberlake, NSYNC's reunion at the VMAs, cronuts, Eva Chen as the EIC of Lucky Magazine and so much more! 

What were your favorites of 2013?

I'm one of the few people who loathe New Years Eve. I'm not ashamed to say it, I actually hate this holiday. I don't know what it is but I just do not like it, I can't put my finger on it. 

Even though I don't like New Years Eve, I do like the idea of starting over and allowing yourself another 365 days to do something you've never done before. I don't, however, like the idea of waiting till January 1st to do something. If you want to change something, the best time to do it is right now. No excuses.

When it comes to the end of the year I enjoy reflecting on the previous 364 days and seeing how far I've come. 

I think it's safe to say that 2013 was one of the best years of my life. It was difficult at times but it was a big learning year for me, a big adjustment year and a fun year at best.

In my post almost a year to the day, I looked ahead and decided what my goals for 2013 would be. A lot of them were not completed, like getting a tattoo or handling my finances better. Some were definitely achieved like meeting new people and stepping out of my comfort zone.

2013 was ultimately a year of lessons for me:

- You  can't do everything alone and asking for help does mean you're a failure.

- Secrets will not always be secrets but it's okay to try, if it feels right.

- It's okay to be a little selfish sometimes. If you don't look out for yourself, who else will?

- Your plans will not always be executed the way you intended but roll with the punches and all will be okay.

- I'll figure things out, I always do.

There were some highlights of 2013 that truly made this one of the best years yet:

1. Turning 21 years old--is that shallow of me to say? It was such a relief when I got my new license in the mail and didn't have a worry in the world, anymore.

2. Interning at Levo League--my favorite website and a summer internship in Manhattan? What more could've I asked for! It was an amazing experience where I learned more than I ever thought possible.

3. Vice President--being Vice President of my sorority was the greatest thing to happen me in college. It taught me what kind of person I am, what kind of leader I am and showed me how much of a control freak really is. It taught me that you can't do everything alone and if you do your best, you did a good job. Being VP was a wonderful gift and something that made 2013 crazy, exciting and incredibly stressful; I wouldn't change it for a thing. 

4. Senior Year--becoming a senior is what I feared most in 2013. I never wanted it to come and I never want it to end. 

5. Being published in USA Today--I don't know if I ever posted it on here but in July I was published on USA Today College. This was the first time I was published on a large platform and it was truly an eye opening moment. It definitely was a highlight of this year and a journalism milestone for me.

There were so many other things that happened to me in 2013 like interning at CollegeLifestyles, dealing with my anxiety better, a bunch of fun social events and of course, another fabulous year of blogging.

What were your 2013 highlights? What are you hoping for in 2014?

I meant to have this post up yesterday but the day after Christmas got to me. I enjoyed the day sitting on my couch, reading the latest Pretty Little Liars book Deadly(which I'll do a post on later) and eating Christmas dinner leftovers.

This Christmas was surprisingly good. My holidays are always hit or miss but this year was definitely a hit. Christmas Eve was at my house with my mom's family while I spent Christmas day at my aunt's house with my dad's family.

Food was eaten (feast of the 7 fishes for us Italians on the Eve), wine was poured (a lot of Pink Moscato for me) and gifts were unwrapped.

I was really happy as was my family; it was a lot of fun.

The night before Christmas Eve me and my friends went to this neighborhood close by that always goes insane with the Christmas lights. There are competition and they accept donations for children's hospitals. There were people all over, stopping to look at the lights and it put me in the best spirit.

One of the most favorite parts of Christmas is of course the presents you give and receive. This Christmas was a little smaller than usual because well, that's what happens when you get old.

I definitely received some amazing presents and I wanted to share some with you because I couldn't keep them to myself.

Kate Spade Earbuds: My best friend got me these and they are awesome! I've lusted after them for at least a year but always hesitated to purchase them myself. The polka dot design is perfect and they are strong; you could hear what you're listening to perfectly.

Monogrammed Bracelet: Ever since I saw Carly from The College Prepster's bracelet, I knew I needed to have one. My mom ordered this for me from the Etsy shop Nurjewel design. Check them out, they have great stuff for prices that won't break your budget.

Crystal Faye Eat.Blog.Love Mug and Notepad: I've been wanting both of these for months but never made the leap to buy them myself. My mom came through this Christmas and I love both of these gifts so much! Crystal Faye is completely awesome so check out her website!

Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C Crossbody: This was a gift that was a total surprise to me. My grandma and grandpa got it for me and my sister (twins, yay) and I was so extremely excited my family was mocking me all night. I've been wanting a Rebecca Minkoff bag for a year now but never asked for one. Unwrapping my gift and seeing this pretty was completely wonderful. It's a very tiny cross body which isn't that great for every day but perfect for a night out.

Naked 3 Palette: I GOT IT! I GOT IT! I GOT IT! This baby has been sold out everywhere and I was a lucky gal to get one. I don't have any of the Naked Palettes but have wanted since I saw the first one. I'm glad I waited for the third one because the rose gold shades are perfect.

Kate Spade Bag: This is the end all be all. My mom scored this bag on Black Friday and I had to wait till Christmas to get it. It's the perfect work bag for when I enter the "real world" in May but it's also perfect for everyday. I'm so in love with it I could cry.

I know that Christmas isn't all about presents but about friends, family, and Jesus. 

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas holiday and are ready for New Years! What did Santa leave under your trees this year? Let me know in the comments!

PS: Don't forget to enter my HireStyle $40 giftcard giveaway! It ends on Sunday so don't miss out!

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and I couldn't be more excited! All weekend my mom, sister and I have been prepping to have the holiday at my house! I know there's a lot of people who don't celebrate Christmas Eve but I'm Italian so it's a tradition.

I am in the full Christmas spirit and I have my favorite Christmas movies to thank for that. ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas always come in clutch in December when all I want to watch is something Christmas themed.

I was thinking the other day what my favorite Christmas movies are because it's always so hard for me to make those kinds of choices.

I narrowed it down and these are the movies that really put me in the Christmas spirit.

1. Elf

Elf is hands down my favorite movie and I haven't seen it yet this season! (Disappointing) I remember seeing it in theaters when it first came out and it's just so hilarious. It puts me in the greatest mood and is so much fun.

2. Home Alone

I'm pretty sure this is on everyone's favorite list; it's such a classic and reminds me of childhood. Also, Kevin is such a badass; we all wish we could be as cool and brave as him.

3. The Year Without a Santa Clause

I'm addicted to all the old clay-mation Christmas specials but this is by far my favorite. I can't even explain why, maybe because it's a story never told like Frosty or Rudolph. It's just my favorite movie to watch during the Christmas season.

4. The Polar Express

I saw this Christmas movie in theaters also. I remember my mom crying at the end of it and I never understood why...that is until I watched it a few years ago. I truly understood what this movie was about and now it makes me cry whenever I watch it.

5. The Santa Clause

This is another classic that I loved watching when it played on ABC. I know it's weird but I love watching it in the original quality, non of this 2013 HD stuff but true 90s fashion. Tim Allen is awesome and it's simply wonderful.

What are your favorite Christmas movies to put you in the Holiday spirit? Tell me in the comments!

I am the complete opposite of the Grinch. I love Christmastime and I. By the time I get home from school, I feel like Christmas is over even though it hasn't even truly started. The Christmas season is so much fun to me; my favorite thing to do is sit by my Christmas tree, watch Christmas movies and drink holiday Starbucks.

My other favorite part of Christmas is baking. I'm no Betty Crocker but Pinterest has provided me with the tips and tricks to make any Christmas incredibly sweet. My baked goods don't always come out as Pinterest worthy but they're decent.

My mom is having Christmas Eve at our house this year which means I will be in true Christmas spirit, including helping her set up and cook. Me and my sister are in charge of dessert so I'm going to try my hand at an intricate recipe.

Here are some that I'm thinking of:

None of these photos are my own 

Hot Chocolate Truffles 

Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies 

Peppermint Oreo Pops 

Christmas M&M Cookies

What are your favorite cookies and desserts to make during Christmas?

It's a mere five days before Christmas and I have yet to do any of my Christmas shopping. I blame finals, laziness, and having no money. 

I would not touch a mall with a ten foot pole a week before Christmas so I've been wracking my brain for quick, adorable last minute gifts that would make anyone smile!

Here are a few of my favorites:

Alex and Ani Bracelets: This brand has blown up in the past year and a half. Everyone has Alex and Ani bracelets now and why wouldn't you? They are adorable, personal and the perfect gift for any girl in your life. There's a bracelet for everyone and if your receiver isn't a bracelet person, Alex and Ani have necklaces, rings and earrings also!

Essie Nail Polish Sets: This can be said for any nail polish but Essie is my favorite. Running to your local drug store and picking up the latest nail polish (bonus points if they come in an adorable little set like Essie's Winter 2013 Collection) is a great gift! Everyone could use a new color to add to their collection and it's a perfect little stocking stuffer. 

Birchbox Gift Subscription: I miss my Birchbox dearly and am awaiting the day when I have enough money to buy a new subscription. Last Christmas I bought my mom a three month subscription to my favorite subscription box service and it's honestly a truly easy gift for just about anyone. Who wouldn't want to receive some beauty goodies in the mail? 

Netflix Giftcard: Netflix was the word of the year in 2013; everything from Arrested Development to Orange is the New Black to binge watching Breaking Bad...everyone was on Netflix. It's the perfect way to spend Christmas break so buy your friends and family a Netflix giftcard--they will thank you later when they're all caught up on Gossip Girl.

What are your picks for last minute Christmas gifts?

Crystal Brooch Strand 

Mini Hex Strand

Crystal Fitzgerald Bib

Crystal Duchess Strand

Do you like BaubleBar? What are your favorite pieces?

This past weekend was the last one of the Fall semester and goodness was it bittersweet. There were no real plans floating around campus; people were still studying for finals and writing papers despite the fact that the library closed at 10pm. 

I, however, was one of the few that stayed on campus even though I was finished with finals. The reason for my lingering around campus besides the fact that I did not want to admit that the Fall semester was over? 

Santacon.

If you haven't heard of this lovely event, it's an annual "bar hop" in Manhattan and across other major cities in the country. Everyone dresses up as Santa or other Christmas characters and do a bar crawl to participating bars. 

The bar hopping part not included because everyone should be acting responsibly, Santacon is quite the experience. It was the first time I attended because I was finally legal and I have never seen anything like this. It was hysterical and wonderful and the perfect event to put you in the Christmas spirit.

Every where you looked in the city, you saw someone dressed as Santa or Mrs. Clause or an elf--there was so much Christmas cheer. No one thought twice when we sang Christmas carols on the subway dressed as reindeer--it was as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

My friends and I dressed as the different reindeer (I was Vixen) and we got into the city around 10:30am. As we walked through Grand Central Station, we saw that random city-goers were taking photos and videos of us and everyone else participating in Santacon. 

I had a tourist stop me and one of my friends to take a picture with us because it was so strange to see reindeer and Mrs. Clause in the subway station.

To make the day better and even more Christmasy, it snowed! We walked around Manhattan, dressed like Christmas in the snow! It was perfect.

I honestly had one of the best times (minus the crowds and expensive drink specials) I had in a while. It was the best thing I could've asked for to put me in the Christmas spirit! 

What did you do this weekend? Have you ever heard of Santacon?

The end of the semester is drawing nearer and I'm beginning to get scared because I can't believe how fast time has flown. It feels like just yesterday I was moving into my house and now I'll be packing up to head home for a month.

I've also been putting off the dreaded internship search. I usually love applying for internships and organizing myself to score a dream internship but this semester, I was seriously slacking. It's December and I still do not have an internship secured. I blame it on my subconscious because I know that this internship is do or die, it's the last one I'll have before accepting a job offer and it's truly scary.

That's not the point of this post though, so back on track.

I've come to realize that I do not need to find an internship right away. A lot of companies are always looking for interns once the semester begins because they realize they didn't hire enough. I have time but I'm still actively applying for any internship I see that interests me.

I have three internships under my belt so I'm pretty experienced when it comes to looking for available internships; I've actually started to help my friends and sorority sisters with their internship hunt, resume and cover letter writing, etc.

If you're an underclassmen looking for the right internship or don't really know where to start, here are a few tips and tricks to get you there:

1. Organize Yourself

Grab an empty notebook or binder and write down every company you want to intern for. No company is too big or too small, just write them down. Have this little book be your internship search book where you record all your contacts, companies, and the dates you apply to the internship. Write down what materials are needed for each company, when you should follow up, and the coordinator's contact information. 

Give each company their own page in the book so you can easily keep track of what is needed for each application.

2. Search EVERYWHERE

There are a few sites you can go on to easily search for internships: InternQueen.com, Ed2010.com, Indeed.com but step outside the box. Go on companies websites, Linkedin pages, and just randomly google the term "internships" attached with your dream company. There are internship postings everywhere, you just need to pay attention.

3. Utilize Your Career Center

Your college or university probably has a career center that specializes in internship and job searches. You may even have a page that has internship listings to apply for. Aside from using them to find an internship, set up an appointment to have them look at your resume and cover letter. 

I was completely clueless on how to write a resume and cover letter before I went to my career center and they saved me. They made my resume and cover letter look and sound perfect to any employer. It was a life saver. 

4. Apply for ANYTHING

You never know where your dream job is going to come from. You may think you want one thing but after working at a particular company or doing that particular job, you'll find out that you actually hate it. For example, I thought I wanted to work in entertainment news but after one of my internships, I figured out that it definitely wasn't for me. If you stay close minded and only go on one track, you may miss out on your dream job.

There are so many other tips and tricks over on InternQueen.com. I've blogged about Lauren and InternQueen Inc quite a few times since I am an Intern Queen Campus Ambassador but she truly does know everything and anything relating to internships. It's definitely worth checking out!

What are you favorite internship search tips and tricks?

Cyber Monday is my Superbowl, it is my Christmas and is better than any day of the year. It's the perfect Monday.

It was extra sweeter this year since it fell the Monday after my birthday weekend so my bank account was filled and ready to go!

I did in fact go a little crazy because I had put myself on a such a strict spending limit over the last few months. Living on my own, paying bills and going grocery shopping along with trying to have a social life does not leave enough wiggle room for frivolous purchases.

I treated myself, though, and bought some lovely little goodies.

My sorority semi formal is on Saturday and I could not be more excited! It's going to be so fabulous and it's always the best night of the entire semester. After this hectic week back after Thanksgiving, everyone needs a chill night of fun with our entire sorority.

Semi formal means one thing and one thing only--dress shopping. Since it's a semi formal and not a full out fancy party, the dresses that we wear aren't as outlandish as they are for Spring. Nonetheless, dress shopping is still not a fun thing for me. 

Luckily I was blessed by the dress gods this time around and my shopping trip to Annie Sez wasn't a complete bust; I found a dress within minutes and I'm perfectly in love.

Holiday/Formal 1 by royallypink featuring cut-out dresses

Holiday/Formal 2 by royallypink featuring a nude lipstick

Holiday/Formal 3 by royallypink featuring a butter london nail polish